In 1963, Nick Yfantides founded Athena Foods in a small, Detroit-based facility off of Gratiot Avenue, serving two products to the local restaurant industry: Spinach Quiche and Lasagna. In 1989, Charidimos “Harry” Sitaras purchased the company, combining his entrepreneurial spirit and his family’s authentic, delicious recipes. Harry revamped the Spinach Quiche and Lasagna recipes and introduced three new products: Spanakopita (Spinach Pie), Pastitsio, and Mousaka, all made using his mother’s tasty recipes. As the company grew, Harry brought his son, James, and daughter, Mary, on board to help meet growing demand. Five years later, the trio relocated to Southfield, at the corner of 9 Mile and Telegraph. They continued  producing their top-quality, tasty products, eventually introducing Mostaccioli, Vegetable Lasagna, and Meatloaf. They also expanded their services to co-packing: producing private label dressings, sauces, soups, and entrees for restaurants and chains across Michigan! In 2014, Harry retired, passing the reigns to his son James, who proudly carries on his father’s legacy of fine ethnic cuisine. Today, Athena Foods is proud to serve their authentic, family recipes to customers across Metro-Detroit, Michigan, and the Midwest!

Harry, his wife Niki, and children James and Mary visiting the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, circa 1972.